MINNEAPOLIS -- The Fab Four helped North Dakota State reach the NCAA tournament this year. The Fifth One was pretty good, too.
The emergence of sophomore forward Michael Tveidt, especially late in the season, was a major factor in the Bison getting the most TV and radio airtime in school history. He had 11 points and five rebounds in the 84-74 first round loss to Kansas on Friday.
He was at his best in helping NDSU overcome an 11-point deficit, the largest Kansas lead of the game. Down 47-36, Tveidt's 3-point field goal started an 8-0 run. He ended it with a high-flying tip-in that brought the Bison within 47-44.
"I think he's going to be a star in The Summit League," said Bison senior guard Mike Nelson. "It was great to see him mature. He's done a lot for this team."
The one hiccup came when the Bison got within 56-53. He missed three straight shots: a free throw lane jumper that rimmed out, a corner shot that went in and out and a 3-point attempt that hit the back rim.
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His biggest contribution, however, was getting the Bison to the Metrodome. His 21 points in The Summit League title game kept the Bison from falling too far behind Oakland (Mich.).
"His emergence was the difference between this year from last year," said NDSU head coach Saul Phillips. "His upside is scary."
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